Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics

Efforts in our research group are presently focused on single-atom detection in order to facilitate the detection of neutrinoless double-beta decay, as part of the EXO collaboration. The CSU EXO Group homepage.

There are two main lines of investigation in our research group. In the first, laser-cooled atoms are photoionized to produce an ultracold plasma, and then studies of fundamental plasma physics under extreme conditions are carried out. In the second, novel ultracold cooling techniques are being explored to extend the range and effectiveness of such cooling.

LIDAR is similar to RADAR, using electromagnetic waves in the visible or near-visible spectrum to remotely investigate properties of a medium. CSU LIDAR is a Na fluorescence Lidar based on innovations developed at CSU, which can be used to determine Na density, temperature, zonal wind and meridional wind in the mesopause region (80-105 km) of the atmosphere both day and night for atmospheric wave and global change studies. The CSU Lidar Group homepage.

Our research group uses ultrastable lasers to study simple atoms (such as hydrogen and antihydrogen). Ultimately, such measurements test fundamental theories such as quantum electrodynamics. Our experiments can be made more precise with cold atoms so we are also investigating laser cooling simple atoms, which requires the development of high power UV lasers. Check out the group homepage here

Emeritus

Our research group has been exploring and utilizing the interaction between coherent optical radiation and neutral atoms. The techniques used and developed in the research pursued by the group push the cutting edge of the current understanding in quantum mechanics and materials science. W.M. Keck Laboratory for Quantum Computing.

Our major research effort is in the area of high precision spectroscopy of excited states of atoms and molecules. We use microwave resonance techniques to study fast beams of atoms and molecules, prepared and detected in excited states by lasers.

Joint Faculty

Research focuses on the development and application of ultrashort wavelength lasers. Physics concepts such as optics, plasma physics, atomic physics, and spectroscopy are utilized to implement these new types of laser devices. Currently, students under Dr. Rocca are working to develop new sources of light, while making those sources practical. The NSF-supported Engineering Research Center for Extreme Ultraviolet Science and Technology, a multi-institutional center, is working toward developing lasers that are more compact and cost efficient, to be used in the same widespread manner as most visible and ultraviolet lasers today.